After breast cancer surgery, oncologists may recommend radiation treatment to kill any cancer cells that may still be present in the remaining tissue. Repeated exposure to radiation causes the skin and deeper tissues to burn and exhibit all of the symptoms of any other types of burns, including blistering, discoloration, pain and seeping of fluids. There are several treatments used to speed healing.
Domeboro Solution
Domoboro, which can be purchased over the counter, is an astringent that contains aluminum sulfate. Used to soothe inflammed tissues and clean the skin, you can mix it with water, pour some on a sterile gauze pad, and apply it to the wound before treating the area with an antiseptic.
Silver Sulfadiazine Cream
Silver sulfadiazine cream is applied with a sterile applicator to wounds. This prescribed medication acts as an antibacterial and promotes healing. It is often used on both second- and third-degree burns. If the area is too tender to apply the cream with a sterile Q-tip, apply the cream to a sterile Telfa (non-sticking) pad that can be laid on the wound.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber
If there is a hyperbaric oxygen chamber (often used to treat "the bends" in divers) in your area, your doctor may make arrangements for you to have treatments. Treatment requires patients to lie for four hours each weekday in the sealed, pressurized chamber. Oxygen is forced into the body's tissues and promotes healing.
Calendula Creams
Some creams used to treat burns contain calendula, an herb from a plant in the daisy family. The extracts from the plant are said to kill viruses, reverse inflammation, and even help destroy tumor cells.
Saline Solution
Sterile saline solution can be sprayed on the burned area to gently cleanse and hydrate the tissues. An antibacterial cream may then be applied to the raw skin.
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